 Former First Lady Rosalind Carter on mental illness. A majority of people don't go first to a mental health professional. They go to their pastor or to a friend, a family member. So if someone comes to you, you can help. Today, mental illnesses can be diagnosed, they can be treated, and the overwhelming majority of people can lead normal lives. For free information on families coping with mental illness, call 800-999-3534. From the Mennonite Churches and Faith and Values Media.